AIG Banji Lawal Strengthens Border Security with Visit to Cross River Deputy Governor
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Border Security Tops Agenda in Calabar
In a strategic effort to enhance security across Cross River State’s border corridors, the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Border Patrol, AIG Banji Lawal, paid a high-profile visit to the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, PhD, at Government House, Calabar, on Thursday.
The visit comes at a critical time when the state is grappling with escalating border-related tensions, making the reinforcement of policing strategies a top priority for both federal and state authorities.
Deputy Governor Commends Professionalism, Cites Challenges
Welcoming the AIG and his delegation, Rt. Hon. Odey praised the professionalism of the Cross River State Commissioner of Police and his team. He emphasised that Cross River’s vast international and inter-state boundaries pose unique challenges, often exposing communities to infiltration from hostile neighbours.
The Deputy Governor reflected on the tragic Yache-Benue boundary conflict, which stemmed from a tenant’s failure to present a goat to the landlord community. The dispute spiralled into violence, claiming 14 lives. He noted that while no community can ever be completely crime-free, the administration of Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Otu is determined to prioritise peace and security, particularly in sensitive border areas.
AIG Lawal Outlines Security Priorities
Addressing the gathering, AIG Banji Lawal explained that the purpose of his visit was to familiarise the Deputy Governor with the Nigerian Police Border Patrol Unit’s operations. He highlighted the unit’s core mandate—curbing arms trafficking, reducing cross-border crime, and collaborating with security forces in neighbouring countries.
AIG Lawal disclosed that recent directives from the Inspector General of Police mandate the reinforcement of security at critical border points in Cross River State. He cited concerns over activities linked to groups such as the Ambazonians from Cameroon, stressing that stronger vigilance is essential to safeguard national security.
Strengthening Inter-Agency Collaboration
According to Akahi News, the meeting also underscored the need for sustained inter-agency cooperation. The Deputy Governor expressed gratitude to security agencies for their dedication in protecting lives and property, while the AIG assured of the police’s unwavering commitment to keeping border communities safe.
AIG Lawal was accompanied on the visit by the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Gyogon Grimah, alongside other senior officers—demonstrating the seriousness of the mission and the collaborative approach being adopted.
The visit signals renewed momentum in Cross River State’s security architecture, with federal and state authorities pledging closer cooperation to protect communities vulnerable to border-related threats. As tensions persist along Nigeria’s international boundaries, the commitment of law enforcement agencies remains central to securing a peaceful environment for all Cross Riverians.
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